hair follicle

noun

: the tubular epithelial sheath that surrounds the lower part of the hair shaft and encloses at the bottom a vascular papilla supplying the growing basal part of the hair with nourishment see hair illustration

Examples of hair follicle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Folliculitis refers to the bacterial or fungal infection of the hair follicle that can lead to redness or pustules centered around the hair follicle. Audrey Noble, Vogue, 1 July 2025 What Is Demodex Blepharitis? Demodex blepharitis is caused by microscopic mites called Demodex that live in the hair follicles and oil glands of our eyelids. Julie Loffredi, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025 Most styes are caused by a bacterial infection of a hair follicle and form a pimple-like bump. Patty Weasler, Verywell Health, 11 June 2025 They’re covered with skin and hair follicles, Wilson adds. Elizabeth Yuko, Flow Space, 6 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for hair follicle

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hair follicle was in 1838

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Cite this Entry

“Hair follicle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hair%20follicle. Accessed 14 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

hair follicle

noun
: the tube-shaped sheath surrounding the lower part of a hair shaft

Medical Definition

hair follicle

noun
: the tubular epithelial sheath that surrounds the lower part of the hair shaft and encloses at the bottom a vascular papilla supplying the growing basal part of the hair with nourishment

More from Merriam-Webster on hair follicle

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